Baobab Business Loan Review

Posted by Credit Nigeria

Baobab Microfinance Bank, a key player in Nigeria’s financial sector, commenced operations in 2010 as a subsidiary of the Baobab Group. Formerly known as Microcred Nigeria, the institution has shown remarkable growth since its inception. From an initial loan book of ₦257 million in 2010, it expanded significantly to ₦4.7 billion by 2018. Baobab has established itself as a reference partner for individuals, entrepreneurs, and micro-entrepreneurs in Nigeria, serving over 200,000 clients and disbursing loans exceeding ₦196 billion while managing savings of over ₦18 billion.

Baobab Loan Products and Services

Baobab Nigeria offers a variety of loan products designed to cater to the diverse needs of business owners:

Disbursement within 72 hours: Loans range from ₦50,000 to ₦50 million, repayable in 1 to 24 months with minimal administrative procedures.
Mini Micro Loan: Accessible to business owners, offering loans from ₦50,000 to ₦50,000,000 for 6 to 12 months.
Micro Loan: Similar to the Mini Micro Loan, with amounts ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦50,000,000 for 6 to 12 months.
Micro+ Loan: Targeted at SMEs, providing loans from ₦500,000 to ₦2,000,000 for 6 to 18 months.
SME Loan: A more substantial option offering ₦2,000,000 to ₦50,000,000 for 6 to 18 months.
Cross and Group Guarantee Loan: Offers loans from ₦50,000 to ₦50,000,000 with a duration of 6 months.
Asset Finance: Accessible to business owners for financing assets, with loans from ₦50,000 to ₦50,000,000 for 6 to 12 months.
Hybrid Green Loan: For existing customers and business owners, offering ₦100,000 to ₦1,000,000 for 6 to 24 months.

Eligibility and Application Process

To access Baobab’s loan facilities, applicants must own a business within Baobab’s lending areas, including states like Anambra, Lagos, Oyo, and others. The business should have been operational for a specified period. The process is streamlined to ensure efficiency, with disbursement possible within three working days, provided all requirements are adequately met.

Interest Rates and Fees

Baobab’s interest rates vary depending on the loan amount but are very competitive. Notably, there are no fees or mandatory account openings required before securing a loan.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Customers have praised Baobab for its customer-centric approach. Testimonials from satisfied clients, like Augustus Omokaro Eriaria and Mr. Enwerem Patrick, highlight the straightforward and efficient loan application process that eliminates cumbersome paperwork.

Regulatory Compliance and Industry Standing

Baobab is recognized for combining financial sustainability with positive social and environmental impacts. The institution adheres to internationally recognized good governance and institutional ethics best practices. It also implements a credit rating methodology to precisely assess borrowers’ financial situations, ensuring responsible lending practices.

Wrap Up

Baobab Nigeria emerges as a reliable and efficient lender in the Nigerian business landscape. Its diverse loan products, competitive interest rates, and commitment to client protection and ethical practices make it an appealing choice for entrepreneurs seeking financial support for their businesses.